Modular pipe basket

ABSTRACT

A modular pipe basket for transporting pipe is disclosed. The modular pipe basket will comprise a rectangular base, two or more stanchions and one or more end caps. In another embodiment, the modular pipe basket will incorporate a storage compartment or bin for storing miscellaneous piping accessories. In addition, the modular pipe basket may be equipped with a four point sling pickup system for lifting the basket with a crane along with the means for lifting the basket with a forklift.

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Non-Provisional applicationSer. No. 11/336,450 filed on Jan. 20, 2006, which claims the benefit ofprior U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 60/645,451, filed on Jan.20, 2005. This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional PatentApplication Ser. No. 61/261,930 filed on Nov. 17, 2009.

Embodiments of the device disclosed herein are useful for transportingpipe. More particularly, embodiments of the devices disclosed herein areuseful for transporting drilling pipe and production pipe wherein thedevice is stackable and capable of being used in several modes oftransportation.

By way of example, devices disclosed herein may be used for thetransport of large volumes of drilling pipe in oilfield drillingoperations. Devices of the present invention can be used to transportpipe via truck and boat. Embodiments of the present invention allow forthe stable and secure transport of pipe. Embodiments disclosed hereinreduce the risk associated with pipe load shifts on either a workboat ora truck, minimizing the risk of worker injury, equipment damage, anddelayed delivery times. Further, the use of devices disclosed herein hasthe potential to eliminate many man-hours associated with switchingbetween various modes of transport. Embodiments disclosed herein providea systematic, uniform, and safe manner of transporting pipe.

Individual embodiments disclosed herein have features such as:stackability; protection of pipe from damage associated with transport;securely holding pipe sections within the basket while maintaining acenter of gravity near the center of the basket; balanced four pointsling pickup points; configurations allowing forklift pickup of thebasket; open side access to enable loading or unloading of pipe sectionsfrom the basket with either a forklift, crane or other lifting means;compatibility with truck and boat transportation; end caps of the basketthat provide a backstop for potential load shifts of the pipe sections;and containers or bins for pipe thread protectors and other equipment.

An embodiment includes at least two stanchions, a rectangular base, andtwo end caps. In a related embodiment, the base has longitudinal membersand cross members. In another related embodiment, the device willinclude at least one bin, and the bin includes an integrated end cap.

A pipe basket having features disclosed herein may, for example,comprise an elongate first base member having a first end, a second end,and a midpoint; an elongate second base member having a first end, asecond end, and a midpoint; wherein the first base member is connectedto the second base member by one or more connecting members; wherein theone or more connecting members have a load rating of at least 10,000pounds; a first stanchion connected to the first base member at a pointcentral to the first end of the first base member and the midpoint ofthe first base member; wherein the first stanchion is substantially freestanding at its upper extent; a second stanchion connected to the firstbase member at a point central to the second end of the first basemember and the midpoint of the first base member; wherein the secondstanchion is substantially free standing at its upper extent; a thirdstanchion connected to the second base member at a point central to thefirst end of the second base member and the midpoint of the second basemember; wherein the third stanchion is substantially free standing atits upper extent; a fourth stanchion connected to the second base memberat a point central to the second end of the second base member and themidpoint of the second base member; wherein the fourth stanchion issubstantially free standing at its upper extent; a first receivingsocket positioned on the first base member opposite the first stanchion;a second receiving socket positioned on the first base member oppositethe second stanchion; a third receiving socket positioned on the secondbase member opposite the third stanchion; a fourth receiving socketpositioned on the second base member opposite the fourth stanchion;wherein the pipe basket is capable of stable stacking on top of asimilar second basket such that the first receiving socket, the secondreceiving socket, the third receiving socket, and the fourth receivingsocket receive a first stanchion of the similar second basket, a secondstanchion of the similar second basket, a third stanchion of the similarsecond basket, and a fourth stanchion of the similar second basketrespectively; wherein a cargo space is represented by a rectangularparallelepiped having a height equivalent to and coextensive with theheight of the first stanchion, having a width equivalent to andcoextensive with the width between the first stanchion and the thirdstanchion, and having a length that both passes through and extendsbeyond the plane occupied by the first stanchion and the third stanchionand that passes through and extends beyond the plane occupied by thesecond stanchion and the fourth stanchion; wherein the full height ofthe cargo space is open at a point between the first stanchion and thesecond stanchion; and wherein the cargo space has a length of at least28 feet. In a related example, the cargo space has a width of at least 3feet; the cargo space has a height of at least 1 foot; and the areaabove the cargo space is open. In a related example, the pipe basket isconfigured and arranged to stably stack on top of the similar secondbasket with the cargo space loaded. In a further related example, atleast one tensioning device is arranged to provide tension between thefirst base member and the second base member. In a further relatedexample, the cargo space is bounded by two backstops at least one ofwhich is removable. In a further related example, at least one of thebackstops is arranged and configured to be removably fastened in aposition such that there is greater than 28 feet separating it from theother backstop but less than 40 feet separating it from the otherbackstop. In a further related example, at least one of the backstops isarranged and configured to be removably fastened in a position such thatthere is greater than 30 feet separating it from the other backstop butless than 43 feet separating it from the other backstop. In a furtherrelated example, there is a backstop at each end of the basket and thedistance between the backstops is greater than 28 feet but less than 45feet. In a further related example, there is a backstop at each end ofthe basket and the distance between the backstops is greater than 30feet but less than 43 feet. In a further related example, the cargospace has a width of at least 3 feet. In a further related example, thecargo space has a height of at least 1 foot. In a further relatedexample, the cargo space has a width of about 40 inches. In a furtherrelated example, the cargo space has a height of about 33 inches. In afurther related example, the pipe basket fits within a rectangularparallelepiped measuring 44 feet×7 feet×7 feet. In a further relatedexample, the cargo space has a width of at least 3 feet; the cargo spacehas a height of at least 1 foot; and the area above the cargo space isopen.

A pipe basket having features disclosed herein may, for example,comprise base members, stanchions, and a cargo space having the basicconfiguration described above wherein the full height of the cargo spaceis open at a point between the first end and the first stanchion;wherein the area above the cargo space is open; wherein the pipe basketis configured and arranged to stably stack on top of a similar secondbasket with a loaded cargo space.

A pipe basket having features disclosed herein may, for example,comprise base members, stanchions, and a cargo space having the basicconfiguration described above wherein the full height of the cargo spaceis open at a point between the first end and the first stanchion;wherein the cargo space has a width of at least 3 feet; wherein thecargo space has a height of at least 1 foot; wherein the first basemember and the second base member each have a load rating of at least10,000 pounds and wherein the cargo space is bounded by one or moreremovable backstops attached to one or more of the base members.

A pipe basket having features disclosed herein may, for example,comprise base members and stanchions having the basic configurationdescribed above; two backstops that are proximate to the ends of thebase members; a cargo space that is bounded by the two backstops;wherein at least one of the backstops is removable; wherein at least oneof the backstops is arranged and configured to be removably fastened ina position such that there is greater than 30 feet separating it fromthe other backstop but less than 34 feet separating it from the otherbackstop; and wherein at least one of the backstops is arranged andconfigured to be removably fastened in a position such that there isgreater than 34 feet separating it from the other backstop but less than38 feet separating it from the other backstop.

A pipe basket having features disclosed herein may, for example,comprise base members and stanchions having the basic configurationdescribed above; a first receiving socket positioned on the first basemember opposite the first stanchion; a second receiving socketpositioned on the first base member opposite the second stanchion; athird receiving socket positioned on the second base member opposite thethird stanchion; a fourth receiving socket positioned on the second basemember opposite the fourth stanchion; a pipe basket cargo space having alength of at least 32 feet; and wherein the cargo space is bounded bytwo backstops at least one of which is removable.

A pipe basket having features disclosed herein may, for example,comprise an elongate base having a first end, a second end, a first longside and a second long side; wherein the first long side has a first endand a second end; wherein the second long side is substantially parallelto the first long side and has a first end that is proximate to thefirst end of the first long side and a second end that is proximate tothe second end of the first long side; a first stanchion attached to theelongate base along the first long side at a point intermediate thefirst end of the first long side and the second end of the first longside; a second stanchion attached to the elongate base along the firstlong side at a point intermediate the first end of the first long sideand the second end of the first long side; a third stanchion attached tothe elongate base along the second long side at a point intermediate thefirst end of the second long side and the second end of the second longside; a fourth stanchion attached to the elongate base along the secondlong side at a point intermediate the first end of the second long sideand the second end of the second long side; an open space between eachof the stanchions that extends above the basket; an open space thatextends from the space above the first end of the elongate base, throughthe area between the first stanchion and the third stanchion, throughthe area between the second stanchion and the fourth stanchion to thespace above the second end of the elongate base.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a side view of an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 2 is a top view of an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 3 is a fragmentary side view of one of the bins with the bin top inthe open position.

FIG. 4 is an end view of the invention depicting the ladder system.

FIG. 5A is a fragmentary side view of a portion of the inventiondepicting an embodiment of the stanchion system design with loadsecuring means.

FIG. 5B is a reverse fragmentary side view of a portion of the inventiondepicting an embodiment of the stanchion system design with strapreceiver.

FIG. 6 is a side view of the invention depicting one pipe basket stackedon top of another.

FIG. 7A is a fragmentary side view of one of the backstops prior toattachment or after removal from an end of the basket.

FIG. 7B is a fragmentary side view of one of the backstops whileattached to the end of the basket.

FIG. 8 is a fragmentary top view of one of the backstops while attachedto the end of the basket.

FIG. 9 is a cross sectional view depicting the inlay of pipe,constrained by the side supports.

FIG. 10 is a side view of the embodiment utilizing the removablebackstops.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

As shown in FIGS. 1-2, modular pipe basket 100 includes base 101,stanchions 102, and end caps 103. Base 101 has two ends and isrectangular. Base 101 includes longitudinal members 104, cross members105, and support members 106. Cross members 105 are welded tolongitudinal members 104 and are substantially perpendicular tolongitudinal members 104. In an embodiment, support members 106 bridgebetween longitudinal members 104 and cross members 105 diagonally (i.e.,at angles which are not right angles) so as to provide the maximumstrength and rigidity to base 101.

In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 2, base 101 includes only twolongitudinal members 104, but those skilled in the art may wish toinclude two or more longitudinal members 104. Similarly, while thefigures show the use of five pairs of cross members 105 (three pairs inthe midsection and one pair at each cap), those skilled in the art maywish to employ a different number of cross members 105 so long as crossmembers will support the pipe held in basket 100. For weight savings,longitudinal members 104, cross members 105, and support members 106 arerigid round or square tubing or rigid beams which are joined togethereither by welding or other fastening means. Those skilled in the artcould construct base 101 in other configurations, such as using a solidsheet of steel.

In an embodiment, basket 100 will include at least two (one on eachside) stanchions 102. Stanchions 102 project upwards from longitudinalmembers 104 wherein stanchion 102 is in a plane that is substantiallyperpendicular to said base. Stanchion 102 can be made of square or roundtubing, beam material, or other equivalent structure. For maximumstrength, each connection between stanchion 102 and longitudinal member104 is reinforced with stanchion support 107. Stanchion supports 107 arecut in a roughly triangular shape and then welded to stanchion 102 andlongitudinal member 104. It would be obvious to one skilled in the artto use another method of bracing stanchion 102, such as using a metalbeam or other like structure. In another embodiment, footings 109 areplaced at the bottom of the base 101 in spaced pairs so as to createrecesses 108 between each pair of footings 109. Recess 108 formed by apair of footings 109 allow the top of each stanchion 102 on bottom pipebasket 100 to fit into recess 108 when stacking basket 100. Footing 109may or may not extend across the entire width of the base. Footing 109will also elevate basket 100 from ground level so as to provide a spaceunderneath base 101 for forklift forks to slide under basket 100 forlifting of basket 100. It would be obvious to one skilled in the art touse a means for receiving forklift forks without footing 109 by creatingat least one aperture in the side of base 101 for receiving forkliftforks.

Basket 100 will also include two end caps 103. Each end cap 103 providesa means to stop and prevent the pipe from sliding out of either end ofbasket 100. For example, if basket 100 were being carried on a typicalflatbed truck trailer and the truck had to make a sudden stop; end cap103 would prevent the pipe from sliding forward and endangering thetruck driver. In addition, the end cap will have the ability to preventdamage to the ends of the pipes when transporting and storing the pipein pipe basket 100. End cap 103 should be constructed of steel plate,corrugated metal, expanded metal, or any material or design that willperform the desired function of arresting the sliding movement of thedrill pipe.

In another embodiment, basket 100 will include at least one bin 110which will have integrated therein an end cap 103 to stop the pipe fromsliding, as shown in FIG. 3. Bin supports 123 can be used to addstrength and rigidity to the connection between bin 110 and longitudinalmembers 104. Alternatively, in the absence of bin 110, the bin supports123 can be joined directly to the end cap 103 to add strength andrigidity to end cap 103. Additionally, bin 110 will provide storagespace on pipe basket 100 and shall comprise end wall 114, two side walls112, a front wall 113 and a bottom 111. The end cap 103 may serve as endwall 114 for the bin, but those skilled in the art may wish to introduceend cap 103 independently from bin 110. Furthermore, those skilled inthe art may wish to locate end cap 103 between bin 110 and pipe loadingarea 126. Typically, drill pipe is already threaded and threadprotectors will be on the threaded sections of the drill pipe when thepipe is shipped. Although the bins can be used for various items, it iscontemplated by the inventors that bin 110 will provide a convenientcontainer for storage of the thread protectors and wood strips. Havingbin 110 on basket 100 provides a way for the pipe purchaser to returnthe thread protectors, along with the basket, to the pipe seller.

Bin 110 will include bin bottom 111, which can be made of steel grate orexpanded metal so as not to collect water. Bin 110 will also includeside walls 112, front wall 113, and end wall 114. Bin 110 may alsoinclude lid 115. For added strength, bin 110 can be made by integratingbeams into side walls 112, front wall 113, end wall 114, or bin bottom111. In addition, any of the bin walls can be reinforced by a ridgewhich can be created by bending the plate steel used to fabricate thewalls. Bin 110 can also include lid 115. In another embodiment, at leastone bin wall shall be constructed of corrugated metal so as to provideincreased strength and reduction of weight of pipe basket 100. Toprovide maximum strength to bin 110 and basket 100, side walls 112,front wall 113, and end wall 114 can be made from one piece of sheetsteel which is bent at right angles to form bin 110. Also, square orround tubing or beam material can be used to add support to bin 110 byproviding a rigid frame for bin 110.

To assist personnel in accessing the top of basket 100 and the inside ofbin 110, bin 110 can also include an integrated ladder 117 as shown inFIG. 4. The ladder 117 may be recessed into the end cap 103 so as not toprotrude from the pipe basket 100. In addition, the ladder can beinstalled on each end cap 103, provided that the ladder 117 isincorporated on alternate sides from the ladder on the opposing end.This will allow ladder 117 on bottom basket to always line up withladder 117 on the top basket in the event the baskets are stacked on topof each other. In addition, ladder hand support 124 can be installed toprovide a hand grip for personnel climbing ladder 117.

As shown in FIG. 1, one or more load securing points 118 can be placedalong pipe basket 100. Load securing point 118 may be located withinstanchion support 107 as shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B. Load securing point118 may be provided in at least four points along the base 101, twoalong each alternate side of the pipe basket 100. At least one loadsecuring means 119 can be placed on one side of pipe basket 101 at loadsecuring point 118 wherein load securing means may be a ratchetingapparatus or equivalent fastening means as shown in FIG. 5A. Althoughload securing means 119 is shown in an upright position in FIGS. 1, 5Aand 6, a slight modification to the load securing point 118 can be madeso that the load securing means 119 can be inverted, thereby positioningthe load securing means 119 upside down within load securing point 118.At least one strap receiver 127 will be placed on the opposite side fromload securing means 119 to provide a connection for strap 125 as shownin FIG. 5B. The strap receiver 127 can be a hook, grapple, clasp, catch,or other equivalent securing means. Strap 125 will be used to hold thedrill pipe securely in place during transport wherein such strap 125 cancomprise a cloth, metal or polymer strap, chain, cable or other like tiedown means. In the stacked configuration shown in FIG. 6, one or more ofthe straps from the bottom basket 100 may be wrapped around thelongitudinal members 104 or any part of the top basket 100 so as tosecure the two baskets together during transport or storage.

To assist in safely lifting the pipe basket 100 with the use of a craneor other like lifting means, sling lifting brackets 121 which can beincorporated into the pipe basket 100 as shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B may beused. Sling lifting brackets 121 are rigid members that may projectdiagonally (i.e., at angles which are not right angles) fromlongitudinal members 104 and are located at four different points alongthe pipe basket 100. However, the sling lifting brackets 121 can alsoproject perpendicular or parallel from longitudinal members 104. Alsoshown in FIGS. 5A and 5B, sling lifting bracket 121 contains pad eye 119which is an aperture placed in sling lifting bracket 121 so as to allowa connection point for the lifting slings of a crane or other likelifting device. Ideally, pad eyes are drilled, not cut, so as to providesuperior strength for pad eyes 119 which are used as lift points. Itwould be obvious to one skilled in the art that pad eye 119 can also bea separate device that is joined to pipe basket 100. To lift basket 100,one may connect a sling to pad eye 119. The sling lifting brackets 121are added to provide additional lifting support. It will be obvious tothose skilled in the art that pad eyes could be placed at several pointson basket 100, including but not limited to stanchion 102, stanchionsupport 107 and base 101. In addition, stanchion support 107 could serveas sling lifting bracket 121.

In another embodiment, the material for all the components of the pipebasket 100 will be galvanized carbon steel to help reduce corrosion ofpipe basket 100. In another embodiment, longitudinal member 104 would bemade of 10-inch thick beams to allow for adequate support of pipe basket100.

By way of example only, pipe basket 100 could have a total length of 38feet with a usable interior space that can accommodate pipe of up to 34feet in length. Basket 100 can be made with a width of approximatelyfour feet and a height of about 54 inches. With these dimensions, twobaskets 100 can be placed side by side on a conventional truck trailer.

In operation, basket 100 is loaded with drill pipe. Once basket 100 isloaded with the desired quantity of pipe, strap 125 can be tightenedover the pipe using strap load securing points 118. As shown in FIG. 6,a first pipe basket 100 can be stacked on top of a second pipe basket100. The two baskets can be secured together using the straps 125 andload securing means 119 or equivalent securing means. As the pipe loadedtherein is used, any thread protectors on the pipe and wood strippingused to space the pipes can be placed in bin 110.

Another embodiment of the basket includes removable backstops 200instead of fixed end caps 103. The location of backstop 200 isadjustable to accommodate different size pipe. It is desirable tominimize the gap between the end of the pipe and the back side ofbackstop 200 to minimize the impact associated with shifting pipe duringsudden stops. In an embodiment of the invention the pipe basket isarranged and configured for the carrying of range 2 pipe. In thatembodiment, the distance between the backstops is the length of therange 2 pipe being carried plus an allowance distance. As an example,the allowance distance may be a distance that is sufficient to allowloading of pipes in the basket without substantial endurance by a basketend. As a further example, the allowance distance may be small enough tocontain the pipe being carried in the event of a sudden change inmomentum of the basket. In a related example the allowance is less than1 foot. In a further related example, the allowance is less than 2 feetand in a still further related example, the allowance is less than 3feet. In a related example, the allowance is greater than 6 inches. In afurther related example, the allowance is greater than 8 inches and in astill further related example, the allowance is greater than 10 inches.In a further related embodiment, the distance between the backstops isthe length of the range 3 pipe being carried plus an allowance distance.The allowance distance for this embodiment may be any of the allowancedistances disclosed for range 2 pipe. In a further related embodiment,basket 100 is used without backstops 200 or other restrictions at theends of basket 100 to accommodate various lengths of pipe such as range3 pipe.

Referring now to FIGS. 7A and 7B of the drawings, the end may be aremovable end. Backstop 200 may be fastened to both longitudinal members104 using a system of slots and pins contained within an attachmentassembly 213. The attachment assembly 213 contains one or more J slots210 and an equal number of rear alignment locator pin slots 211 andholes 212 to allow penetration of locking clevis pins 203. Backstop 200includes a real alignment locator pin 201, a forward location pin 202and holes 204 to allow for the penetration of locking clevis pins 203.To attach backstop 200, forward location pin 202 is inserted into J slot210. As shown in the embodiment depicted in FIGS. 7A and 7B, the choiceof J slots determines the effective length of the basket. Backstop 200is secured to each longitudinal member 104 by insertion of rear locatorpin 201 in rear alignment pin slot rear alignment locator pin slots 211.Lifting of backstop 200 may be accomplished with the aid of a sling (notshown) attached to lift point 206. After backstop 200 is in place, i.e.,forward location pin 202 is securely inserted into J slot 202 and rearalignment pin 201 is inserted into rear alignment pin slot 211. Thebackstop may be further secured by insertion of locking clevis pins 203through appropriately placed holes in the attachment assembly 213 andthe holes 204 on the sides of backstop 200. Those skilled in the art maysubstitute an alternate means to pin or secure the backstop 200 to theattachment assembly 213.

FIGS. 7A and 7B further show the placement of the channel iron 220 whichis adjacent to and attached to stanchion 102. Stanchion 102 and channeliron 220 project upwards from longitudinal member 104, wherein bothstanchion 102 and channel iron 220 are in a plane that is substantiallyperpendicular to longitudinal member 104. Stanchion 102 and channel iron220 may be reinforced with one or two station supports 107. Retainerbracket 223 freely slides within channel iron 220. Within retainerbracket 223 is an arched rubber strip 225 (not shown) which is designedto contact the uppermost pipe loaded in the basket. The arch is designedto correspond to the arch of arched board 222. Stanchion 102 and channeliron 220 act as physical barriers to constrain and contain pipe that isplaced within the basket. Further, channel iron 220, retainer bracket223, arched board 222, and load securing point 118 cooperate to securepipe within the basket when the basket 100 is loaded according to amethod described below. Footings 109 support the basket and recess 108that is opposite stanchion 102 may be used in the stacking of othersimilar pipe baskets. Tagline D ring 208 allows control of the basketduring maneuvering such as when the basket is lifted by a crane.

Referring now to FIG. 8 of the drawings, attachment assembly 213 isattached to the upper face of longitudinal member 104 and contains Jslots 210, rear alignment locator pin slots 211, and holes 212. Thestrap from ratchet strap 125 is designed to travel to the interior ofretainer bracket 223 over arched rubber strip 225 (not shown) which sitatop the load of pipe and down to load securing point 118. Thetensioning of the strap from ratchet strap 125 secures the load inplace. Also shown in FIG. 8, stanchion member 102 extends directly up,being perpendicular to longitudinal member 104. A board 222, or othersupportive material such as rubber, extends between the two longitudinalmembers 104 creating an arched support bed on which the pipe or similarcargo may lay. Boards equivalent to board 222 are spaced along thelength of basket 100 such that the cargo is similarly supported alongthe length of basket 100. Not shown in this view, directly beneath board222 is a cross member 105. Channel irons 220, also shown in FIG. 8,extend directly up, being perpendicular to longitudinal member 104 andadjacent to the stanchion member 102. Together, the channel irons 220and stanchion 102 form the side of the basket, holding the pipe within.After the pipe has been otherwise secured, the retainer bracket 223 isbolted to the open side of the channel iron 220, for additionalsecurity.

As shown in FIG. 9, a cross member 105 is welded to longitudinal members104 at the location of the stanchion 102 and is perpendicular to bothlongitudinal members 104 and stanchion 102. Board 222, or other slightlyflexible but supportive material, is placed on the top side of the crossmember to support the pipe carried within. Board 222 may be arched inany manner that allows for the arching of pipe layers such that thetensioned strap from ratchet strap 125 exerts force on each of the pipesin the basket by way of exerting downward force on arched rubber strip225. This downward force sandwiches each layer of pipe between archedrubber strip 225 and arched board 222 with flexible pipe separators 224separating each layer of pipe. Pipe is laid within the basket, lyingboth perpendicular to the cross member 105 and perpendicular tostanchions 102. The cross member 105 and the arched board lay within thesame plane. Multiple layers of pipe are laid in the basket, separated byflexible pipe separators 224. Material to be used for pipe separatorsmust be flexible yet able to support and cushion the load of pipe.Flexible pipe separators may be secured between the two pieces ofchannel iron 222. In one embodiment, pipe separators 224 are made ofrubber strips having dimensions similar to framing lumber boards. Actuallumber or other supportive and moderately flexible materials can be usedin the place of rubber. Pipe separators 224 lie parallel to cross member105 and arched board 222, however in a different vertical plane.

As shown in FIG. 9, the top layer of pipe is secured by a final layer ofmodestly flexible stripping 225 that is tied down with straps fromratchet strap 125 with the assistance of load securing point 118. Thearched rubber strip 225 may alternatively be wood or another material ofcomparable properties. Ratchet strap 125 is utilized to place tension onthe strap from ratchet strap 125 by passing the strap over the archedrubber strip 225, securing it to load securing point 118 and ratchetingthe ratchet component of ratchet strap 125. After the rubber stripping225 is secured in place with flexible straps under tension, the retainerbracket 223 is fastened to the channel iron 220 to secure and supportthe rubber stripping and flexible strip. Retainer bracket 223 iscomprised of two horizontal members, each parallel to the ends of thebasket and perpendicular to the channel iron 220, that straddle archedrubber stripping 225, holding it in place.

FIG. 10 is a full side view of the embodiment utilizing the removablebackstop 200.

Installation of backstop 200 occurs by lowering the backstop 200 towardthe base. Specifically, the forward location pin 202 is inserted intothe desired J slots 210. The choice of J slots 210 is based on thedesired length of the completed basket, which in turn is based on thelength of pipe being transported. Once forward locator pins 202 aresecured in J slots 210, backstop 200 is lowered so that rear alignmentlocator pin 201 slides into rear alignment locator pin slots 211. Whenbackstop 200 rests securely on attachment assembly 213 and longitudinalmembers 104, locking clevis pins 203 are inserted into holes 204.

Pipe may optionally be loaded onto basket 100 by a pipe deck machine.Interaction with a pipe deck machine is accomplished by removing thebackstop 200 that is nearest the pipe deck machine and allowing the pipedeck machine to lower a section of pipe into basket 100. Lifting andlowering of pipe by the pipe deck machine is accomplished by clampingonto a pipe at multiple locations with the arm of the pipe deck machineand raising the pipe out of the basket, rotating that pipe to a verticalposition adjacent the basket.

Loading of pipe onto the basket may be accomplished by laying a singlelayer of pipe in between stanchions 102 on the several similar archedboards 222 by any one of various means, including forklift, crane, orpipe deck machine. Next, a pipe separator 224 is laid over the firstlayer of pipe within channel iron 220. Multiple layers of pipe and pipeseparators 224 are laid in the basket to field the basket cargo area.Each layer of pipe separators 224 is laid in a similar fashion at eachend of pipe basket 100. Retainer bracket 223 is then slid into channeliron 220 and secured to channel iron 220 immediately above the top layerof pipe with locking screws. The strap of ratchet strap 125 is thenlooped over arched rubber strip 225, attached to load securing point118, and ratcheted to a tension sufficient to secure the pipe againstmovement during transport. Multiple ratchet straps 125 and securingpoints 118 are placed along the length of basket 100 on longitudinalmembers 104, such that the pipes are secured within basket 100. In oneembodiment, ratchet straps 125 are placed along the longitudinal members104, alternating between longitudinal members 104 such that thetensioning of the straps of ratchet straps 125 pulls on the cargo inalternating directions.

In one embodiment of the backstop, the weight balance is such that theforward loading pin 202 is lower than the rear alignment pin 201 andcomes in contact with the J slot 210 prior to the rear alignment pin 201making contact with the rear alignment locator pin 211. After theforward location pin 202 is securely resting in the desired J slot 210,the process of lowering the backstop 200 is continued until the rearalignment locator pin 201 rests within the rear alignment locator pinslot 211. The backstop 200 is secured to the base by use of pins 203,which are readily inserted to secure the backstop to the base andreadily removed to disassemble. Removal of the backstop occurs byreversing the steps above.

In an embodiment of the invention, basket 100 is 33 feet or 35 feet inlength with the backstops 200 installed at the two alternate positions.For example, the basket 100 may be 30 feet long without the backstops200 installed. For example, basket 100 may be 4 feet wide and 4 feet 8inches tall. As a further example, the cargo area may be 32 feet long or34 feet long depending on the positioning of backstops 200. As a furtherexample, the cargo area may be 40 inches wide and 36 inches high. In oneembodiment, basket 100 with backstops 200 installed weighs 4450 pounds.In a related embodiment, basket 100 has the capacity to handle 17,550pounds of pipe.

As used herein, the term “load rating” indicates the maximum amount ofweight that a structural member can sustain at its center when supportedat both ends.

It is understood that the array of features and embodiments taughtherein may be combined and rearranged in a large number of additionalcombinations not directly disclosed, as will be apparent to one havingskill in the art. There are, of course, other alternate embodimentswhich are obvious from the foregoing descriptions of the invention,which are intended to be included within the scope of the invention, asdefined by the following claims.

1. A pipe basket comprising: an elongate first base member having afirst end, a second end, and a midpoint; an elongate second base memberhaving a first end, a second end, and a midpoint; wherein the first basemember is connected to the second base member by one or more connectingmembers; wherein the one or more connecting members have a load ratingof at least 10,000 pounds; a first stanchion connected to the first basemember at a point central to the first end of the first base member andthe midpoint of the first base member; wherein the first stanchion issubstantially free standing at its upper extent; a second stanchionconnected to the first base member at a point central to the second endof the first base member and the midpoint of the first base member;wherein the second stanchion is substantially free standing at its upperextent; a third stanchion connected to the second base member at a pointcentral to the first end of the second base member and the midpoint ofthe second base member; wherein the third stanchion is substantiallyfree standing at its upper extent; a fourth stanchion connected to thesecond base member at a point central to the second end of the secondbase member and the midpoint of the second base member; wherein thefourth stanchion is substantially free standing at its upper extent; afirst receiving socket positioned on the first base member opposite thefirst stanchion; a second receiving socket positioned on the first basemember opposite the second stanchion; a third receiving socketpositioned on the second base member opposite the third stanchion; afourth receiving socket positioned on the second base member oppositethe fourth stanchion; wherein the pipe basket is capable of stablestacking on top of a similar second basket such that the first receivingsocket, the second receiving socket, the third receiving socket, and thefourth receiving socket receive a first stanchion of the similar secondbasket, a second stanchion of the similar second basket, a thirdstanchion of the similar second basket, and a fourth stanchion of thesimilar second basket respectively; wherein a cargo space is representedby a rectangular parallelepiped having a height equivalent to andcoextensive with the height of the first stanchion, having a widthequivalent to and coextensive with the width between the first stanchionand the third stanchion, and having a length that both passes throughand extends beyond the plane occupied by the first stanchion and thethird stanchion and that passes through and extends beyond the planeoccupied by the second stanchion and the fourth stanchion; wherein thefull height of the cargo space is open at a point between the firststanchion and the second stanchion; and wherein the cargo space has alength of at least 28 feet.
 2. The pipe basket of claim 1 wherein thecargo space has a width of at least 3 feet; wherein the cargo space hasa height of at least 1 foot; and wherein the area above the cargo spaceis open.
 3. The pipe basket of claim 1 wherein the pipe basket isconfigured and arranged to stably stack on top of the similar secondbasket with the cargo space loaded.
 4. The pipe basket of claim 1wherein at least one tensioning device is arranged to provide tensionbetween the first base member and the second base member.
 5. The pipebasket of claim 1 wherein the cargo space is bounded by two backstops atleast one of which is removable.
 6. The pipe basket of claim 5 whereinat least one of the backstops is arranged and configured to be removablyfastened in a position such that there is greater than 28 feetseparating it from the other backstop but less than 40 feet separatingit from the other backstop.
 7. The pipe basket of claim 5 wherein atleast one of the backstops is arranged and configured to be removablyfastened in a position such that there is greater than 30 feetseparating it from the other backstop but less than 43 feet separatingit from the other backstop.
 8. The pipe basket of claim 1 in which thereis a backstop at each end of the basket and the distance between thebackstops is greater than 28 feet but less than 45 feet.
 9. The pipebasket of claim 1 in which there is a backstop at each end of the basketand the distance between the backstops is greater than 30 feet but lessthan 43 feet.
 10. The pipe basket of claim 1 wherein the cargo space hasa width of at least 3 feet.
 11. The pipe basket of claim 1 wherein thecargo space has a height of at least 1 foot.
 12. The pipe basket ofclaim 1 wherein the cargo space has a width of about 40 inches.
 13. Thepipe basket of claim 1 wherein the cargo space has a height of about 33inches.
 14. The pipe basket of claim 1 wherein the pipe basket fitswithin a rectangular parallelepiped measuring 44 feet×7 feet×7 feet. 15.The pipe basket of claim 1 wherein the cargo space has a width of atleast 3 feet; wherein the cargo space has a height of at least 1 foot;and wherein the area above the cargo space is open.
 16. A pipe basketcomprising: an elongate first base member having a first end, a secondend, and a midpoint; an elongate second base member having a first end,a second end, and a midpoint; a first stanchion connected to the firstbase member at a point central to the first end of the first base memberand the midpoint of the first base member; wherein the first stanchionis substantially free standing at its upper extent; a second stanchionconnected to the first base member at a point central to the second endof the first base member and the midpoint of the first base member;wherein the second stanchion is substantially free standing at its upperextent; a third stanchion connected to the second base member at a pointcentral to the first end of the second base member and the midpoint ofthe second base member; wherein the third stanchion is substantiallyfree standing at its upper extent; a fourth stanchion connected to thesecond base member at a point central to the second end of the secondbase member and the midpoint of the second base member; wherein thefourth stanchion is substantially free standing at its upper extent;wherein a cargo space is represented by a rectangular parallelepipedhaving a height equivalent to and coextensive with the height of thefirst stanchion, having a width equivalent to and coextensive with thewidth between the first stanchion and the third stanchion, and having alength that both passes through and extends beyond the plane occupied bythe first stanchion and the third stanchion and that passes through andextends beyond the plane occupied by the second stanchion and the fourthstanchion; wherein the full height of the cargo space is open at a pointbetween the first end and the first stanchion; wherein the area abovethe cargo space is open; wherein the pipe basket is configured andarranged to stably stack on top of a similar second basket with a loadedcargo space.
 17. A pipe basket comprising: an elongate first base memberhaving a first end, a second end, and a midpoint; an elongate secondbase member having a first end, a second end, and a midpoint; a firststanchion connected to the first base member at a point central to thefirst end of the first base member and the midpoint of the first basemember; wherein the first stanchion is substantially free standing atits upper extent; a second stanchion connected to the first base memberat a point central to the second end of the first base member and themidpoint of the first base member; wherein the second stanchion issubstantially free standing at its upper extent; a third stanchionconnected to the second base member at a point central to the first endof the second base member and the midpoint of the second base member;wherein the third stanchion is substantially free standing at its upperextent; a fourth stanchion connected to the second base member at apoint central to the second end of the second base member and themidpoint of the second base member; wherein the fourth stanchion issubstantially free standing at its upper extent; wherein a cargo spaceis represented by a rectangular parallelepiped having a heightequivalent to and coextensive with the height of the first stanchion,having a width equivalent to and coextensive with the width between thefirst stanchion and the third stanchion, and having a length that bothpasses through and extends beyond the plane occupied by the firststanchion and the third stanchion and that passes through and extendsbeyond the plane occupied by the second stanchion and the fourthstanchion; wherein the cargo space has a width of at least 3 feet;wherein the cargo space has a height of at least 1 foot; wherein thefirst base member and the second base member each have a load rating ofat least 10,000 pounds; and wherein the cargo space is bounded by one ormore removable backstops attached to one or more of the base members.18. A pipe basket comprising: an elongate first base member having afirst end, a second end, and a midpoint; an elongate second base memberhaving a first end, a second end, and a midpoint; a first stanchionconnected to the first base member at a point central to the first endof the first base member and the midpoint of the first base member;wherein the first stanchion is substantially free standing at its upperextent; a second stanchion connected to the first base member at a pointcentral to the second end of the first base member and the midpoint ofthe first base member; wherein the second stanchion is substantiallyfree standing at its upper extent; a third stanchion connected to thesecond base member at a point central to the first end of the secondbase member and the midpoint of the second base member; wherein thethird stanchion is substantially free standing at its upper extent; afourth stanchion connected to the second base member at a point centralto the second end of the second base member and the midpoint of thesecond base member; wherein the fourth stanchion is substantially freestanding at its upper extent; two backstops that are proximate to theends of the base members; a cargo space is bounded by the two backstops;wherein at least one of the backstops is removable; wherein at least oneof the backstops is arranged and configured to be removably fastened ina position such that there is greater than 32 feet separating it fromthe other backstop but less than 34 feet separating it from the otherbackstop; and wherein at least one of the backstops is arranged andconfigured to be removably fastened in a position such that there isgreater than 35 feet separating it from the other backstop but less than37 feet separating it from the other backstop.
 19. A pipe basketcomprising: an elongate first base member having a first end, a secondend, and a midpoint; an elongate second base member having a first end,a second end, and a midpoint; a first stanchion connected to the firstbase member at a point central to the first end of the first base memberand the midpoint of the first base member; wherein the first stanchionis substantially free standing at its upper extent; a second stanchionconnected to the first base member at a point central to the second endof the first base member and the midpoint of the first base member;wherein the second stanchion is substantially free standing at its upperextent; a third stanchion connected to the second base member at a pointcentral to the first end of the second base member and the midpoint ofthe second base member; wherein the third stanchion is substantiallyfree standing at its upper extent; a fourth stanchion connected to thesecond base member at a point central to the second end of the secondbase member and the midpoint of the second base member; wherein thefourth stanchion is substantially free standing at its upper extent; afirst receiving socket positioned on the first base member opposite thefirst stanchion; a second receiving socket positioned on the first basemember opposite the second stanchion; a third receiving socketpositioned on the second base member opposite the third stanchion; afourth receiving socket positioned on the second base member oppositethe fourth stanchion; a pipe basket cargo space having a length of atleast 32 feet; and wherein the cargo space is bounded by two backstopsat least one of which is removable.
 20. A pipe basket comprising: anelongate base having a first end, a second end, a first long side and asecond long side; wherein the first long side has a first end and asecond end; wherein the second long side is substantially parallel tothe first long side and has a first end that is proximate to the firstend of the first long side and a second end that is proximate to thesecond end of the first long side; a first stanchion attached to theelongate base along the first long side at a point intermediate thefirst end of the first long side and the second end of the first longside; a second stanchion attached to the elongate base along the firstlong side at a point intermediate the first end of the first long sideand the second end of the first long side; a third stanchion attached tothe elongate base along the second long side at a point intermediate thefirst end of the second long side and the second end of the second longside; a fourth stanchion attached to the elongate base along the secondlong side at a point intermediate the first end of the second long sideand the second end of the second long side; an open space between eachof the stanchions that extends above the basket; an open space thatextends from the space above the first end of the elongate base, throughthe area between the first stanchion and the third stanchion, throughthe area between the second stanchion and the fourth stanchion to thespace above the second end of the elongate base.